Marong assault accused in court

By
Elise Snashall-Woodhams

Marong assault accused in court

A Marong man who allegedly assaulted a police officer, and had to be subdued with the help of two passing tradies, hopes to plead mental impairment.

Ronald McLennan, 49, appeared in the Bendigo Magistrates Court yesterday on six charges including theft, recklessly causing injury, assaulting police, resisting police and tampering with a motor vehicle.

McLennan was pulled over by highway patrol officer Leading Senior Constable Peter Dyer on Allies Road, near the Calder Highway, on March 22 this year.

It is alleged he tried to steal keys from a police car then wrestled Leading Senior Constable Dyer to the ground.

The police officer waved for help during the brawl and was rescued by two passing tradies who helped restrain McLennan.

The policeman suffered a swollen hand and fingers, cuts and grazes in the incident.

In court yesterday, McLennan’s lawyer Megan Aumair said her client had a significant hearing impairment and mental health issues.

Ms Aumair tendered a letter from McLennan’s psychiatrist which said a mental impairment defence might be available to him.

“So I am seeking a lengthy adjournment for a forensic psychiatrist’s assessment,” she said.

Magistrate Jennifer Tregent adjourned the case to the same court on December 12 for a committal mention.